Ideal for the skinniest water, this technical poling skiff is rated for 115 horsepower

FLIPPIN (February 19, 2007)
Technical poling skiffs have long been the norm for serious inshore anglers who target the biggest fish. While able to float in very shallow water and easy to pole, these skiffs were often small, lacking fishing space and low on power. New for 2007, Ranger Boats introduces the 173 Ghost - a technical poling skiff that still gets anglers into the skinniest water without asking them to sacrifice things like space, comfort and performance.

Rated for a maximum 115 horsepower and equipped with a 30-gallon fuel tank, this 17-foot, 3-inch boat is ready to make short work out of long runs, giving anglers more time to fish. With the increased horsepower, the 173 Ghost is able to deliver a smoother, drier ride than other skiffs without sacrificing maneuverability - allowing it to float in as little as 8 inches of water.

"Making long runs in little boats can take a long time, you're at the mercy of the wind and it can be a wet ride. But small boats are it for a lot of this back-county fishing because they're easier to pole in fishing situations," said Ranger Pro and TV personality Blair Wiggins. The 173 Ghost, is effortless to pole plus you get the benefits of the additional horsepower and fishing space."

Horsepower wasn't the only reason for building a 17-foot, 3-inch technical poling skiff. The added length and width gives the 173 Ghost plenty of interior and deck space, making it feel like a much larger boat. Rated for four people, this boat has plenty of room for guides to pole clients around the mangroves in search of trophy fish or for family and friends to catch whatever is biting. With Ranger's zero hull-slap technology, this boat is whisper-quiet in the water so that anglers can confidently stalk even the spookiest fish.

Passengers aboard the 173 Ghost will find easy access to storage and to on-board features such as the aerated livewell/baitwell with high-speed pickup and in-line filter. The boat also offers quick access to batteries, breakers and pumps with all electronics using corrosion-resistant wiring and resettable breakers. Elsewhere, the 173 features a skid-resistant interior and custom-fitted, premium marine upholstery.

"Whether poling the backcountry or running to a favorite spot the Ranger name is synonymous with quality and performance," said Ranger Boats President, Randy Hopper. "The 173 enjoys more power and space while preserving the boat's ability to pole and maneuver in the skinniest water."

Additional custom details of the 173 Ghost include an anchor locker, flush-mounted push pole holders, gel-coated storage boxes, recessed trim tabs and a bevy of other features. With plenty of storage (10-foot rod storage in the gunnels plus added storage at the bow and stern) and plenty of fishing space, the 173 Ghost is everything that savvy saltwater anglers have come to expect from a Ranger: unparalled performance and fishability, loaded with features and a smooth, dry ride.

Equipped with a single-axle, custom-matched aluminum trailer built for saltwater use, the 173 Ghost is easier to maneuver and enjoys the smooth trailering benefits of custom alignment and individually balanced wheels. Up front, the center swing jack retracts flush to the frame and creates a more balanced load, making it even more secure on the trailer. Combined with matching stainless steel fenders, aluminum wheels, matching spare tire and wheel, Ranger's exclusive oil bath COOL Hub® lubrication system, torsion axle suspension, and swing-away tongue, the RangerTrail® trailer delivers lasting peace of mind and easier towing.

About Ranger Boats
Ranger Boats, headquartered in Flippin, Ark., is the nation's largest manufacturer of premium fiberglass fishing boats, including a series of bass, multi-species, fish 'n play and saltwater boats. Founded in 1968 by Forrest L. Wood, Ranger Boats continues its commitment to building the highest quality, strongest performing boats on the water. For more information on Ranger Boats or to locate your nearest Ranger dealer log on to www.rangerboats.com

About Genmar
Genmar, with approximately 5,000 employees and nine manufacturing centers, is the builder of 13 premier brands of recreational boats and the industry's technological leader in the United States and Europe with the development of VEC® Technology and the Roplene® process. Genmar boat brands include Carver®, Champion®, Four Winns®, Glastron®, Hydra-Sports®, Larson®, Marquis™, Ranger®, Scarab®, Seaswirl®, Stratos®, Triumph® and Wellcraft®.